What is Papaya Enzyme?

Papaya enzyme compounds include proteolytic enzymes, which are proteins found in the fruit of the tropical papaya plant (Carica papaya). The most well-known of these enzymes is papain, a compound that promotes digestive wellness and comfort. While the fruit is popular for its luscious flavor, its papaya enzyme may steal the show by helping to metabolize proteins while optimizing digestive ease and gastrointestinal wellness.**

Originating in Central America, papayas, with their pleasing tropical scent and sweet orange-pink flesh, have long been celebrated in the cuisine and traditional wellness practices of various locales around the world, including Africa and South America. Legend has it that it was even dubbed the "Fruit of the Angels" by Christopher Columbus, one of many European seafarers who helped to bring the exotic edible to other parts of the globe.**

Historically, the fruit has been used in numerous countries as a meat tenderizer, a property attributed to the enzyme papain’s ability to efficiently break down protein. Papain and other papaya enzyme compounds (chymopapain, caricin and glycyl endopeptidase) act in a similar manner, assisting in the digestion of nutrients by helping the body process and absorb protein.**

While the pancreas normally supplies enzymes for digestion, some people have pancreatic insufficiency that diminishes enzyme production. In these populations, papaya enzyme may be especially beneficial – it can act as a substitute for pancreatic enzymes and help encourage healthy digestion and GI comfort. Digestive enzyme benefits are far-reaching for anyone, assisting with digestive complaints ranging from gas to sour stomach.**

Papaya Enzyme Supplements

Papaya enzyme supplement products are generally derived from the whole fruit and are most often presented as pleasant-tasting chewable tablets. Digestive enzyme supplements are usually taken after meals to assist with digestion.**

Papaya Enzyme Supplements Directions for Use

Consult your health care provider before starting any regular supplementation. While there is no standard dosage, papaya enzyme tablets often range between 6 and 100 mg.**